Keeping a Balanced Diet
There is no easier way to say this — you are what you eat. Having a diet that's low on saturated fats, and sugars and high in protein, whole foods, healthy fats and veggies is the not-so-secret elixir for a long and happy life.
Friendships Are Important
This one is less obvious but, who you have in your social circle can impact your quality of life. They affect not just your emotional health but your hobbies, habits, support systems and a lot more. If someone in your circle is behaving badly, it might be time to reconsider that friendship.
Living Past 90 Is Now Easier Than Ever
Right now, there are more than 97,000 people in the United States above the age of 100 and that number is only on the rise. Here is everything they do that keeps them ticking...
Sleep Is Always Essential
Not getting enough sleep has been linked with increased risks of heart attack, dementia and diabetes. According to cardiologist Dr. Virend Somers, "During sleep, your brain and body perform many critical tasks important for overall health.".So next time you feel that sleeping is unproductive, think again.
Never Stop Moving
Exercising for just half an hour daily can reduce the risk of heart diseases, manage weight, improve bone and muscle health, and a lot more. You don't have to be a fitness freak but getting some exercise everyday can put you on the fast track to crossing 90.
Say No to Cigarettes
Cigarettes cause cancer. That is just a fact. They might give you a temporary rush of endorphins but is that worth putting your life at risk long-term? If you are a smoker, here's your sign to quit. You absolutely don't need that toxic tar in your body!
Have a Consistent Wake-Up Time
Why? Because waking up at the same time everyday helps you maintain your body's natural circadian rhythm. Having a set routine also helps improve your long-term mental health. Afterall, consistency is the key to success.
It's Helps to Have a Spouse
This may sound funny, but according to research, married people tend to outlive their single friends. This is because of the economic and emotional stability that marriage provides. So if you haven't already, take a short walk down the aisle and you'll have someone to cross 90 with.
Stay Hydrated
We've all been told since birth to drink eight glasses of water a day. But why? If food is our fuel, water is our oil. Without it, our engine will overheat and malfunction. So when you are at the end of your rope, grab a tall glass of water to boost you up!
Good Posture Is Key
There is a reason parents all over the world say not to slouch. Good posture not only affects how you see yourself and how the world sees you but it also prevents long term damage to your back.
Napping Is a Form of Therapy
Spain has a higher life expectancy than the U.S.. Why? Siesta is not just a habit, it's the culture! Studies have shown that nappers are 37% less likely to die of heart disease. So next time someone makes afternoon plans, grab a pillow and tell them you're working on your health goals.
There's No Place Like the Outdoors
If you're a homebody, you might be putting yourself at risk! Spending time outdoors, especially in green spaces, is the double-whammy of health boosts. Walking boosts your physical health and nature and greenery helps improve your mental well-being. If this sounds like you, good job! You're already on your way to reaching 90.
Eat Slowly
Eating healthy balanced meals isn't enough. Eating slowly further breaks down the digestive process and reduces the strain on your gut, improving gut-health long term. Turns out, chewing your food at least 32 times is a secret to life itself!
Learn to Laugh Freely
Laughter has been shown to reduce the cortisol (stress hormones) in your body. Reduced cortisol means a better immune system and mental health. Finding joy in the little things is really just a proven way to extend your life!
Learning Is a Life-Long Process
Curiosity only killed the cat, not us. In fact, having a curious mindset and always learning can help improve brain function and reduce the risk of diseases like Alzheimer's and Dementia. If your goal is to cross 90, don't ever stop learning!
Volunteering Is Not Just for Others
What do you do once the children have flown the nest? If you volunteer, it might help extend your life! Volunteering in your community for just two hours a week has been shown to improve mental and physical health. If you think about it, volunteering ultimately pays you back as well!
Don't Sit for Too Long
If you have a job where you are sitting for eight hours a day, it's time to get a standing desk. Sitting for too long has been shown to affect cardiovascular, joint and muscle health. If you want to cross 90, don't just sit there, move!
Have a Purpose
Whether it's a hobby, family, or volunteering, everyone NEEDS a reason to stay alive. The feeling of purposelessness has been linked to decline in cognitive function and mental health. So as you near retirement, find a reason to get up everyday.
Praying Together Always Helps
If you are a regular worshipper, you might have a longer life! Studies have shown that people over 65 who attend religious services more than once a week have higher levels of certain immune proteins compared to their peers. Moral of the story is that praying together can boost your health and extend your life.
Life Needs a Little Music
Yes, you heard that right! Music lovers tend to live longer. Music tends to reduce stress, improve mental health and enhance brain function—all of which increases your life expectancy.
Grab a Book
Good news for bibliophiles everywhere—you'll probably outlive those who 'only watch movies'. Reading keeps the brain active and stimulated, reducing the risk of cognitive decline. So if you're a reader, don't put that book down yet.
